- Photos of the Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Illinois
- Know Before You Go
- Where to Stay Near the Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds
- Attractions Near the Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds
- Plan Your Route 66 Road Trip
- Reviews & Ratings
Photos of the Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Illinois
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to the Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Illinois, here are some things to know before you go.
Where is the Route 66 Experience located?
The Route 66 Experience exhibit is in the Illinois State Fairgrounds at the corner of historic Route 66 and Sangamon Avenue—you’ll find it inside Gate 2 on the fairgrounds property.
When can you visit? Is it open year round?
You don’t have to wait until the annual Illinois State Fair to enjoy the Springfield Route 66 exhibit. It is open year-round, 24-hours a day. Visit after dark to see the neon lit up!
For more fun, visit the Illinois State Fair at this location every August!
Is there an admission fee?
Viewing the outdoor Route 66 displays is generally free, but remember that when the Illinois State Fair or other ticketed events are running you may need fair admission or pay for event parking. Check fair dates before you go if you want to avoid event crowds or gate fees.
Where can you park?
The fairgrounds have multiple entrances and parking; Gate 2 (Route 66 & Sangamon) is the usual approach. If one gate is closed, circling to a different entrance usually works.
What is the best time to visit for photos?
Dusk and early evening are especially striking times to visit. The neon signs light up and make for dramatic photos. Weekday mornings or off-fair days are the quietest times for an unobstructed visit.
Is this a popular Route 66 roadside attraction?
Yes! With its historic walkthroughs, neon signs, and fun recreations of roadside attractions, the Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds is a very popular stop on Route 66. It is one of our picks for the Top 10 Illinois Route 66 Roadside Attractions, 66 Route 66 Attractions Worth Pulling Over For, and 66 Most Instagrammable Spots on Route 66.
Where to Stay Near the Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these nearby Route 66 hotels in Springfield, Illinois.
State House Inn
State House Inn, a landmark hotel in Springfield, Illinois, features a business center, gym, ironing service, and complimentary breakfast with a convenient location directly across the street from the Illinois State Capitol. Book a stay in one of the two themed Presidential Suites: the Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd.
Inn at 835
Located near the Illinois State Capital and numerous Lincoln Historical sites, Inn at 835 offers 11 guest rooms, plus two additional suites in the Bell House. Accommodations include private baths with plush towels, hand-milled French soaps, soft linens, antique furnishings, flat screen TVs, and WiFi.
Attractions Near the Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairgrounds
Abe Lincoln Rail Splitter Statue in Springfield, Illinois
The Lincoln Tomb in Springfield, Illinois
This is such a cool addition to Route 66! I loved visiting the Route 66 Experience in Springfield. My only regret is that I couldn’t time it right to get there after dark when everything is lit up – I’ll have to try again next time!